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How to Ship Plants and Live Animals via UPS

Live animals and plants are among the most restricted items to ship. UPS accepts certain species on a limited, contractual basis — but the rules are strict.

UPS Rules for Live Animals

Ventilated plant shipping box and secure animal transport container

UPS accepts live animals on a limited, contractual basis. The rules are specific:

  • Next-day delivery required — cannot ship on Fridays or before holidays
  • Must use a new corrugated box (minimum 275 lb burst strength)
  • Package must be marked "LIVE ANIMALS" in 1-inch bold lettering on opposing sides
  • Shipped at shipper's own risk for perishable nature
  • International shipments require an International Special Commodities (ISC) contract

Accepted Animals

UPS accepts the following live animals (unless poisonous, venomous, or endangered):

  • Amphibians: frogs, salamanders, toads
  • Cephalopods: squid, octopus, nautilus
  • Crustaceans: crabs, crawfish, lobsters, shrimp
  • Fish: all species
  • Insects: beneficial insects only (bees, butterflies, crickets, lady bugs)
  • Mollusks: clams, mussels, snails
  • Reptiles: lizards, non-venomous snakes (contract), freshwater turtles, land tortoises, sea turtles
  • Non-venomous spiders (contract only)
  • Worms: all species

Prohibited: birds, mammals, venomous creatures, endangered species, crocodiles/alligators, obnoxious insects (flies, roaches, termites)

What About Other Carriers?

FedEx: Does not accept live animals for shipment through standard services. Contact FedEx Custom Critical for specialized animal transport.

USPS: USPS accepts some live animals (day-old poultry, honeybees, certain insects) under specific conditions. Most mammals, reptiles, and fish are prohibited.

Plants: UPS accepts plants with a shipping account. The rules depend on the plant type, origin, and destination. Some states have agricultural restrictions.

We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. This information is for educational purposes and reflects carrier policies as we understand them. Laws vary by state and change frequently. Always consult the carrier directly and review applicable federal and state regulations before shipping regulated items.

Reference: UPS official plants/animals shipping policy →

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to the most common questions about packaging, carriers, pricing, and what to expect.

Can I ship a pet through UPS?
No — UPS prohibits mammals of any kind. Pets must travel through specialized pet transport services or airlines that offer pet cargo.
Can I ship live fish?
Yes — fish are accepted by UPS. They must be double-bagged in 4-mil plastic bags (1/3 water, 2/3 oxygen) inside a sturdy box. Next-day delivery only.
Can I ship live bees?
Yes — bees are accepted by UPS as beneficial insects. Shipments must use a corrugated sleeve around the traditional wooden crate. Liquid food supplies are prohibited (use hard candy only).

Shipping plants or animals? These are highly specialized — we can point you in the right direction.

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